Madrid dismiss David Silva bid to try to pip Chelsea for Marouane Fellaini

Real Madrid have decided against pursuing their interest in Manchester City’s
David Silva, but look set to take on Chelsea for the signature of Everton midfielder
Marouane Fellaini.

Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has made strengthening his title-winning side’s midfield a priority for the summer transfer window, prompting speculation he would launch a raid for City’s Spanish ace Silva.

Marouane Fellaini is wanted by Chelsea and Real Madrid (PA)

Officials at the Etihad Stadium were worried about the reports, but their concerns were eased when Madrid president Florentino Perez contacted them to say he did not plan to bid for the former Valencia star.

Mourinho still hopes to land a Premier League midfielder this summer, but his target is Everton’s Fellaini, reports Marca.

The former Chelsea boss is impressed by the Belgium international’s tough-tackling approach and ability in the air, and apparently sees him as a strong candidate for a central midfield role at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Chelsea are also keen on the 24-year-old and are rumoured to be planning a £20million bid.

News of interest from the Spanish champions will allow Everton to push the price up, should Toffees manager David Moyes decide he is ready to cash-in on a player he signed from Standard Liege for £15million in 2008.